Things to do in Cuba

3 destinations in Cuba, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Cuba

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Havana: The cheapest flights to Havana appear in September and October (hurricane shoulder season) and again in late April through early June, where fares can run 25-35% below December-January peak holiday prices. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) shaves another 10-15% off typical fares.
Trinidad: Fly to Cuba in September through November (outside peak hurricane season weeks) or January through March for the lowest fares, with savings of roughly 20-35% versus the December holiday and July summer peaks. Midweek departures on Tuesday or Wednesday consistently undercut weekend fares by an additional 10-15%.
Varadero: The cheapest months to fly to Varadero are May, June, and October, when fares from US hubs drop 30-45% versus the December-March peak winter season. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) saves an additional 10-15% compared to weekend flights.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Havana: Stroll the Malecón at sunset Locals bring rum and guitars every evening, it's the world's longest free concert and social scene
Havana: Explore Plaza de la Catedral and surrounding plazas Four stunning historic squares in Habana Vieja are open-air museums you can wander at any hour
Trinidad: Wander the cobblestone streets Every block of the historic center is a photo opportunity, colonial architecture, colorful doors, and street musicians at every turn.
Trinidad: Sunset from Cerro de la Vigia viewpoint Climb to this hilltop bell tower ruin for sweeping golden-hour views over the red-tiled rooftops and valley beyond.
Varadero: Walk the Varadero Boardwalk Stroll the wooden malecón at sunset for free ocean views, street performers, and local life.
Varadero: Explore Parque Retiro Josone Wander the gardens, watch rowboats on the lagoon, and enjoy the ambiance without paying for rides.

La Guarida (lunch menu) in Havana, Ropa vieja or fish of the day on the fixed lunch menu Plates $5-10
Mercado de Cuatro Caminos in Havana, Congri (rice and black beans) with pork and plantains from market stalls Plates $1-3
Restaurante Plaza Mayor (paladares around the plaza) in Trinidad, Ropa vieja with rice, beans, and plantains Plates $3-6
Mercado Agropecuario stalls in Trinidad, Fresh fruit, pan con lechón (roast pork sandwich) Plates $1-3
Cafetería La Casona in Varadero, Ropa vieja with rice and black beans Plates $3-6
El Ranchón (state paladares near town center) in Varadero, Grilled lobster tail with moros y cristianos Plates $5-10